53% of Citizens Blame Corruption for Loss of Trust in Politicians, Institutions — CHRDI

April 15, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The latest online citizen opinion poll conducted by the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has revealed that corruption and lack of integrity remain the single biggest reasons citizens are losing trust in politicians and public institutions.

According to the 2026 findings of the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) poll, a commanding 53 percent of respondents identified corruption and a lack of integrity as the single biggest factor undermining their confidence in leadership and governance systems, significantly outweighing all other concerns highlighted in the survey.

The findings present a stark picture of public sentiment, suggesting that concerns over accountability, honesty and ethical leadership now dominate citizens’ perceptions of national governance.

The poll, which sought to determine the main drivers of declining public trust, showed that political polarization ranked second with 16 percent, underscoring growing concern over the deepening “us versus them” political climate that many citizens believe is undermining national cohesion and effective governance.

Closely following was broken promises and unreliability at 14 percent, reflecting frustration among citizens who feel political leaders often fail to deliver on campaign pledges and public commitments.

Meanwhile, misinformation and lack of transparency accounted for 9 percent, indicating that concerns over unclear communication, hidden decision-making processes and the spread of misleading narratives continue to erode confidence in public institutions.

At the lower end of the poll, economic insecurity and lack of political voice each recorded 4 percent, suggesting that while those issues remain significant, many respondents believe they are symptoms of deeper governance failures rooted in corruption and institutional dishonesty.

The results further indicate that political polarization now outweighs broken promises as a source of distrust, highlighting the extent to which division and partisan hostility are increasingly viewed as obstacles to national progress.

Observers say the findings send a strong message to policymakers, governance institutions and political actors that rebuilding public trust will require far more than rhetoric. Citizens appear to be demanding visible reforms, ethical leadership, transparency and stronger accountability mechanisms.

The CHRDI survey offers an important snapshot of public opinion at a time when confidence in democratic institutions remains central to national stability, citizen participation and long-term development.

With corruption emerging so overwhelmingly at the top of public concern, the poll reinforces growing calls for institutions to strengthen integrity systems, enforce anti-corruption safeguards and promote leadership standards that restore citizens’ belief in governance.

Dr. Sidie Mohamed Tunis Honored at National 70 Most Influential Students Awards

April 15, 2026

By Ibrahim John Sesay

At a colourful and inspiring ceremony held on April 10, 2026, at City Hall in Freetown, the National Union of Sierra Leone Students (NUSS) honoured Rtd. Hon. Dr. Sidie Mohamed Tunis, former ECOWAS Parliament Speaker, at the National 70 Most Influential Students Awards 2026, where he also delivered a thought-provoking keynote address that challenged young leaders to translate recognition into measurable national impact.

The prestigious event, which brought together students, lecturers, policymakers and development stakeholders from across Sierra Leone, celebrated 70 exceptional students from universities nationwide who have distinguished themselves in academics, leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship. Held under the theme: “Celebrating Academic Excellence, Innovation and Entrepreneurship,” the ceremony reinforced the critical role of young people in shaping the country’s future through knowledge, creativity and responsible leadership.

In his keynote address, Rtd. Hon. Dr. Sidie Mohamed Tunis described the awards as a defining national moment that should come with greater responsibility for the honourees. He urged the students to look beyond applause and titles and instead focus on the value they can create within their communities and the nation at large. According to him, true leadership is never measured by rhetoric, but by service, impact and the ability to solve real societal problems. He encouraged the awardees to continue learning, loving, sharing and engaging in volunteerism that directly improves the lives of others, while constantly reflecting on the systems they can transform for national progress.

Rtd. Hon. Dr. Sidie Mohamed Tunis further highlighted his longstanding commitment to education, disclosing that since 2022, he and his wife, Nabeela Tunis, have committed 10 billion old Leones over a five-year period through the One Love Salone Foundation to support scholarship opportunities for less privileged students across Sierra Leone. He noted that the initiative is already changing lives by expanding access to higher education and helping deserving young people realize their academic ambitions.

Reflecting on his public service journey, he stated that for over 19 years, he has remained dedicated to youth and women empowerment through interventions in education, health, agriculture and entrepreneurship, contributions that have earned him several recognitions, including a Lifetime Achievement Award for Peace and Democracy.

He also commended the leadership of NUSS, particularly its President, Fiona Ngima, whom he praised as the first female democratically elected President of the National Union of Sierra Leone Students. He described her leadership as a symbol of progress, courage and inclusivity in student governance, noting that her tenure reflects a positive shift in youth leadership and representation.

In her remarks, Fiona Ngima said the awards were designed not merely to celebrate academic excellence, but to spotlight leadership, creativity, innovation and community service among students who continue to make meaningful contributions to national development. She stressed that influence should never be mistaken for position but rather understood through the positive impact one makes in society. She further revealed plans by NUSS to launch the Union’s constitution, introduce a digital application known as UniCollect to integrate grading systems and improve access to information for university students and roll out a NUSS Magazine that will highlight female leadership and document student contributions nationwide.

Also speaking at the event, the Director of Education at the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, Emmanuel J. Momoh Esq., applauded NUSS for organizing what he described as a historic and transformative initiative. He noted that the awards represent a celebration of intellect, resilience and innovation among Sierra Leone’s youth, while encouraging the honourees to rise above mediocrity and position themselves as architects of progress and custodians of the nation’s future. He urged students to maximize digital tools and modern opportunities to accelerate both academic excellence and societal transformation.

The Director of Civic Education and Citizens’ Engagement at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, Timothy Sam, also called on students to embrace patriotism, civic responsibility and environmental consciousness. He encouraged them to take pride in Sierra Leone’s identity, culture and natural beauty, while serving as ambassadors of positive change in their institutions and communities. He further disclosed plans for future collaboration between the Ministry and NUSS through a proposed Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening civic education across tertiary institutions in the country.

In recognition of his unwavering dedication to student advancement and national development, Rtd. Hon. Dr. Sidie Mohamed Tunis was presented with an Award of Honor by the NUSS leadership. The citation praised his steadfast support, guidance and tireless commitment to shaping the success paths of students nationwide.

The event climaxed in a celebratory atmosphere as the 70 award recipients were honoured in the presence of their peers, lecturers, friends and family members. As the 2026 edition drew to a close, NUSS reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive and empowering environment where students can thrive as innovators, leaders and drivers of Sierra Leone’s development, further cementing the National 70 Most Influential Students Awards as one of its flagship initiatives for youth excellence.

Karene Civic Day Opens with Quiz and Debate Competitions, Deepens Youth Civic Engagement

April 15, 2026

By Ibrahim Sesay

The Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) on Monday, April 13, 2026, officially commenced its two-day Civic Day Series in Karene District with an engaging inter-school quiz and debate competition aimed at strengthening civic awareness among secondary school pupils and bringing governance closer to the people.

Held at the Karene District Council Hall in Kamakwie, the event forms part of the Ministry’s broader nationwide public engagement drive under the theme: “Government at Your Doorstep,” a people-centered initiative designed to create direct interaction between citizens and Government leaders on national development issues.

Delivering the opening statement, Permanent Secretary of MoICE, Andrew Seannie Kamara, described the Civic Day engagement as a vital democratic platform that allows citizens, particularly young people, to directly interface with decision-makers while improving their understanding of civic responsibilities.

“This two-day engagement is very significant. It gives you the unique opportunity to interact with your leaders and ask questions,” he said, noting that the academic contests were intentionally designed to test students’ understanding of governance, citizenship and national issues.

Speaking on behalf of the district’s traditional leadership, Paramount Chief Momodu James Kamara of Sella Limba Chiefdom welcomed the initiative and assured organizers of the full support of the chiefs and local authorities.

He said the presence of Ministers and senior Government officials in the district presents an important opportunity for communities to seek answers to longstanding concerns affecting their people.

“Having Ministers come here to answer those questions is a laudable step,” he said, while encouraging residents to actively participate in the ongoing Civic Day activities. He added that the invitation extended to the chiefs reflects Government’s confidence in their role as custodians and representatives of the people.

The day’s youth-centered segment attracted strong participation from schools across Kamakwie township including Christ Solutions Academy, Wegdam High School, Magbonkoni Community Secondary School, St. Peter’s Agricultural Secondary School and the Sierra Leone Muslim Brotherhood (SLMB) Secondary School.

The quiz competition proved highly competitive, stretching through three intense rounds before heading into a decisive tie-breaker stage. At the end of the contest, Zainab O.A. Kamara of St. Peter’s Agricultural Secondary School emerged winner with 31 points, while Bilal Timbo of SLMB Secondary School secured second place with 28 points.

The debate competition was equally spirited, featuring four schools: St. Peter’s Agricultural Secondary School, SLMB, Westlyn Secondary School and Wegdam High School.

Students debated major civic and development issues, including whether Government should prioritize the Feed Salone initiative over Free Quality Education, as well as whether the upcoming national census should be viewed primarily as a development exercise rather than a political process.

Following two rigorous rounds of debate, Samura Momoh A. of St. Peter’s Agricultural Secondary School claimed first place with 15 points. Abdulai Sillah of SLMB finished second, while Sarah Sankoh of Wegdam High School secured third place.

In recognition of their outstanding performances, the winners received cash prizes, certificates and commemorative civic education materials. First-place winners in both categories each received NLe 2,000, Certificates of Participation as well as census-branded jackets and caps. Second and third-place winners received NLe 1,500 and NLe 1,000 respectively, alongside certificates.

The Ministry said the schools’ segment reflects its continued commitment to nurturing informed, responsible and civically conscious young citizens who can contribute meaningfully to national development.

The Civic Day Series continued on April 14, with a major town hall meeting bringing together more than ten senior Government officials and local residents for direct dialogue on constitutional review, the national census, local governance reforms and other pressing national issues.

The town hall session was led by the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor M. Bah, as Government intensifies efforts to promote civic participation and strengthen trust between state institutions and communities across Sierra Leone.

Through the Karene engagement, MoICE’s Civic Day Series continues to reinforce the message that governance works best when citizens are informed, involved and empowered to shape national conversations.

Orange Money Launches Mastercard Virtual Card, Unlocking Global Payments for Sierra Leoneans

April 15, 2026

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Orange Mobile Finance Sierra Leone Limited has officially unveiled the Orange Money Mastercard virtual card, a landmark innovation expected to significantly broaden digital payment access for customers across Sierra Leone. Powered through a strategic partnership with Zenith Bank Sierra Leone and global payments giant Mastercard, the new product marks a major step forward in the country’s evolving digital finance ecosystem.

The launch introduces a seamless bridge between Orange Money wallets and Mastercard’s international payment network, allowing customers to make secure local and international transactions directly from their mobile wallets. With the virtual card, users can now pay for goods and services at any merchant point worldwide where Mastercard is accepted, while also enjoying easier access to online shopping platforms, subscription services, travel bookings and other digital services.

This development effectively removes longstanding barriers that limited many Sierra Leoneans from participating fully in the global digital economy, especially those without access to traditional banking cards.

Speaking at the launch, Orange Money Chief Executive Officer David S. Mansaray described the initiative as a transformative leap in the company’s financial inclusion agenda.

“The introduction of the Orange Money Mastercard marks a significant step forward in our vision to provide inclusive, accessible and innovative financial solutions. This product empowers our customers to participate confidently in the global digital economy while enjoying the simplicity and security of Orange Money,” he stated.

Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Zenith Bank Sierra Leone, Ugochukwu Irechukwu, underscored the strategic value of the partnership, noting that it strengthens the intersection between conventional banking and mobile money services.

According to him, the collaboration is designed to deliver safe, fast and convenient online and international payments, while enhancing customer experience and accelerating the growth of Sierra Leone’s digital economy.

Mastercard Country Head for Ghana, Gambia, Liberia and Sierra Leone, Bossman Akuffo Kwapong, described the product as a game changer for digital payments in the region, emphasizing its potential to expand access to global commerce for millions of users.

A major attraction of the Orange Money Mastercard is its direct wallet integration, which gives customers real-time access to available funds and supports smooth, instant transactions. Key features include strong security protocols, global acceptance, secure online payments and convenient access to e-commerce, travel, entertainment and subscription platforms.

The innovation is expected to particularly benefit young people, freelancers, small business owners and entrepreneurs, many of whom previously faced difficulties making international digital payments.

Customers can conveniently obtain and manage the virtual card through the Orange Money Maxit App, making the onboarding process simple and user-friendly.

The launch further reinforces Orange Money’s position as a leader in mobile financial services in Sierra Leone, where it continues to drive financial inclusion through money transfers, bill payments, merchant services and now expanded global payment access.

With Mastercard operating in over 200 countries and territories, and Zenith Bank Sierra Leone providing technology-driven banking support, the new virtual card is widely seen as a major boost to Sierra Leone’s digital transformation journey.

Finance Minister Seeks IMF, World Bank Support as Middle East Crisis Threatens Sierra Leone’s Economy

April 15, 2026

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, has intensified diplomatic and economic engagements at the 2026 IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C., seeking urgent international backing to cushion the country against the potential economic shocks arising from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Leading a high-powered Sierra Leone delegation, the Finance Minister is participating in the global meetings taking place from April 13 to 18, where finance leaders, central bank governors, development institutions, investors, academics and civil society actors are reviewing the state of the world economy and emerging international risks.

The Sierra Leone delegation includes senior Government officials such as the Ministers of Energy and Basic and Senior Secondary Education, the Financial Secretary, the Governor and Deputy Governor of the Bank of Sierra Leone, alongside top economists from both the Ministry of Finance and the central bank.

During a strategic bilateral meeting with the IMF’s Fiscal Affairs Department (FAD), Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura conveyed President Julius Maada Bio’s appreciation for the institution’s continued technical support to Sierra Leone’s public financial management reforms. He highlighted key areas of collaboration, including the review of the Public Financial Management Act 2016, reforms to the Public Procurement Act 2016, improvements in cash management and forecasting, as well as the country’s migration to Government Finance Statistics 2014 standards.

The Minister underscored that the Government’s disciplined economic policies over the past two years have produced encouraging macroeconomic outcomes, including easing inflationary pressures, relative exchange rate stability, a stronger primary balance position and sustainable yields on Government securities.

However, he warned that the escalating Middle East conflict now poses a significant threat to those hard-won gains, particularly through possible disruptions in global commodity prices, energy markets, food imports and fiscal stability.

Against that backdrop, the Minister urged the IMF’s Fiscal Affairs Department to deepen its support in strategic revenue-generating sectors, especially mining taxation reforms. He specifically called for enhanced technical assistance in transfer pricing systems, advance pricing agreements, safe harbour regimes, amendments to the Income Tax Act 2000 and the Excise Act 1998, as well as the mid-term review of Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term Revenue Strategy 2023–2027.

In response, the Director of the Fiscal Affairs Department commended the Minister’s leadership in advancing fiscal reforms and reaffirmed the IMF’s commitment to continued collaboration, indicating that Sierra Leone’s requests would receive positive consideration.

The Finance Minister also held crucial discussions with Sierra Leone’s IMF country team, including Mission Chief Christian Saborowski, focusing on the possible economic spillover effects of the Middle East conflict.

During the meeting, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura noted that the crisis has introduced serious uncertainties into the implementation framework of Sierra Leone’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme with the IMF. He informed the team that Government is already deploying measures to reduce the shock on the economy and sought clarity on possible IMF support mechanisms available to vulnerable developing economies.

Christian Saborowski acknowledged the difficult global environment confronting low-income countries and warned of the likely implications for food security and poverty levels. He nevertheless advised Sierra Leone to remain focused on meeting the programme’s Quantitative Performance Criteria and Structural Benchmarks by the end of April, a key condition for the successful completion of the third ECF review in June 2026.

On the World Bank front, the Finance Minister also met with Dr Zarau W. Kibwe, Executive Director for the Africa West I Constituency, where discussions centred on possible emergency support instruments for countries impacted by the crisis.

The Minister informed the Executive Director that Sierra Leone’s World Bank portfolio remains on a strong performance trajectory and disclosed that discussions are already underway on deploying the Rapid Response Option (RRO) to help soften the domestic effects of the Middle East crisis.

The engagements underscore Sierra Leone’s proactive diplomatic and fiscal strategy to shield its economy from external shocks while preserving the gains made under ongoing macroeconomic reforms.

Sierra Leone to Host ECOWAS Judicial Council Conference for the First Time

April 15, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Sierra Leone is set to make history as it prepares to host the prestigious ECOWAS Judicial Council Conference for the first time, a landmark event expected to further elevate the country’s growing influence in regional judicial cooperation and legal reform.

According to a statement issued by the Judiciary of Sierra Leone, the high-level conference will take place from 20th to 24th April 2026 at the Atlantic Hotel, Lumley Beach, Freetown, bringing together some of the most senior judicial figures from across West Africa.

The five-day gathering is expected to attract approximately 12 Chief Justices, 15 judges and several distinguished judicial officials from member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The meeting is being convened under the current chairmanship of Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda, marking a major milestone for Sierra Leone’s justice sector.

The ECOWAS Judicial Council serves as a critical regional platform aimed at strengthening judicial cooperation, promoting the rule of law and improving the administration of justice among member states. Its deliberations often focus on judicial independence, accountability, institutional reforms and cross-border legal collaboration.

Hosting the conference is widely seen as a strong endorsement of Sierra Leone’s increasing leadership role in advancing judicial reforms within the sub-region. It also reflects the Judiciary’s continued commitment to upholding judicial independence, transparency and effective justice delivery.

Speaking ahead of the conference, Chief Justice Komba Kamanda described the event as a defining moment not only for the Judiciary but for Sierra Leone as a whole.

He noted that hosting the ECOWAS Judicial Council meeting demonstrates the country’s collective commitment to strengthening judicial institutions across West Africa, deepening cooperation among courts and promoting the rule of law as a cornerstone of democratic governance and sustainable development.

The conference is also expected to feature extensive deliberations on pressing issues affecting the judiciary in the region, including judicial independence, emerging legal challenges and innovative approaches to justice administration.

Legal analysts say the conference presents a strategic opportunity for Sierra Leone to showcase progress made in its justice sector while learning from best practices across the ECOWAS bloc.

Beyond its judicial significance, the event is expected to reinforce Sierra Leone’s diplomatic and institutional standing in regional affairs, while also boosting confidence in the country’s ability to host major international engagements.

The Judiciary of Sierra Leone has expressed optimism that the conference will lead to productive engagements and practical outcomes that will contribute to the continued advancement of justice systems across West Africa.

The hosting of the ECOWAS Judicial Council Conference is expected to stand as yet another testament to Sierra Leone’s rising profile in regional governance, legal cooperation, and institutional leadership.

Foreign Nationals Encouraged to Regularise Status as Nationwide Enforcement in Full Swing

April 15, 2026

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Government of Sierra Leone has officially commenced the nationwide enforcement of mandatory registration requirements for all foreign nationals residing and working in the country, in a move aimed at strengthening national security, improving migration management and ensuring full compliance with the country’s legal residency framework.

According to a Press Release issued by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE) on 14 April 2026, the enforcement exercise applies to all non-citizens and covers strict compliance with three key legal documents: Non-National Identity Cards, Residence Permits and Work Permits.

Government stated that the initiative forms part of a broader national strategy to enhance security systems through the creation of a comprehensive foreign nationals database, which will enable effective monitoring, documentation and compliance tracking of all foreign residents across Sierra Leone.

The move is expected to support state institutions in identifying foreign nationals lawfully residing in the country while also improving inter-agency coordination among security, immigration, labour and civil registration authorities.

Officials noted that all non-citizens are now required to obtain the relevant documentation and keep such documents in their possession at all times, warning that failure to comply with the directive may lead to enforcement actions by the responsible authorities.

The Government emphasized that the exercise is not only a compliance measure but also a strategic intervention designed to improve border governance, labour regulation and the integrity of Sierra Leone’s residency management systems.

As part of efforts to ease access and improve service delivery, authorities disclosed that applications and renewals for residence and work permits can now be completed online through the Unified Permit System portal at unifiedpermit.gov.sl.

The release further identified several key institutions spearheading the exercise, including the Office of National Security, the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security, the Sierra Leone Immigration Department and the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA).

Those institutions are expected to work collaboratively to ensure seamless implementation nationwide, while also providing guidance and support services for foreign nationals seeking to regularize their status.

The Government has meanwhile called on all concerned individuals, employers, institutions and foreign residents to cooperate fully with the enforcement process, describing compliance as critical to national security, lawful employment and orderly migration governance.

This latest directive is expected to particularly affect foreign workers in the mining, construction, hospitality and commercial sectors, where the presence of expatriate labour remains significant.

With enforcement now active nationwide, authorities say the initiative will help create a more reliable and transparent system for tracking residency, employment eligibility and lawful foreign presence in Sierra Leone.

The Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all foreign nationals living and working in Sierra Leone operate within the legal framework, while encouraging prompt action to avoid sanctions and administrative penalties.

Golden Malt Craft Beer – Partners & Elites Wanted!

April 15, 2026

Launched on January 1, 2026, in Sierra Leone, Golden Malt Craft Beer delivers a fresh and smooth taste in draft kegs and PET bottles, perfectly suited to the local climate.

We are seeking partnerships with hotels, bars, clubs, and lounges.

Our Partners Enjoy:

● Higher profit margins
● Free tasting support
● Stable and reliable supply
● Joint marketing opportunities

We Are Also Hiring:

● Business Development Manager
● Sales Representative
● Marketing Specialist

What We Offer:

● Competitive salary plus performance bonus
● Career growth opportunities
● Professional training
A dynamic and supportive team

Call: 030668888
Email: goldenmalt2025@gmail.com

Be among the first to partner with Sierra Leone’s newest craft beer brand!

Orange Money Mastercard Debuts as Game Changer for Financial Inclusion and E-Commerce Access in Sierra Leone

April 13, 2026

Orange Mobile Finance Sierra Leone Limited has officially unveiled the Orange Money Mastercard virtual card, a landmark innovation expected to significantly broaden digital payment access for customers across Sierra Leone. Powered through a strategic partnership with Zenith Bank Sierra Leone and global payments giant Mastercard, the new product marks a major step forward in the country’s evolving digital finance ecosystem.

The launch introduces a seamless bridge between Orange Money wallets and Mastercard’s international payment network, allowing customers to make secure local and international transactions directly from their mobile wallets. With the virtual card, users can now pay for goods and services at any merchant point worldwide where Mastercard is accepted, while also enjoying easier access to online shopping platforms, subscription services, travel bookings, and other digital services.

This development effectively removes longstanding barriers that limited many Sierra Leoneans from participating fully in the global digital economy, especially those without access to traditional banking cards.

Speaking at the launch, Orange Money Chief Executive Officer David S. Mansaray described the initiative as a transformative leap in the company’s financial inclusion agenda.

“The introduction of the Orange Money Mastercard marks a significant step forward in our vision to provide inclusive, accessible, and innovative financial solutions. This product empowers our customers to participate confidently in the global digital economy while enjoying the simplicity and security of Orange Money,” he stated.

Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Zenith Bank Sierra Leone, Ugochukwu Irechukwu, underscored the strategic value of the partnership, noting that it strengthens the intersection between conventional banking and mobile money services.

According to him, the collaboration is designed to deliver safe, fast, and convenient online and international payments, while enhancing customer experience and accelerating the growth of Sierra Leone’s digital economy.

Mastercard Country Head for Ghana, Gambia, Liberia and Sierra Leone, Bossman Akuffo Kwapong, described the product as a game changer for digital payments in the region, emphasizing its potential to expand access to global commerce for millions of users.

A major attraction of the Orange Money Mastercard is its direct wallet integration, which gives customers real-time access to available funds and supports smooth, instant transactions. Key features include strong security protocols, global acceptance, secure online payments, and convenient access to e-commerce, travel, entertainment, and subscription platforms.

The innovation is expected to particularly benefit young people, freelancers, small business owners, and entrepreneurs, many of whom previously faced difficulties making international digital payments.

Customers can conveniently obtain and manage the virtual card through the Orange Money Maxit App, making the onboarding process simple and user-friendly.

The launch further reinforces Orange Money’s position as a leader in mobile financial services in Sierra Leone, where it continues to drive financial inclusion through money transfers, bill payments, merchant services, and now expanded global payment access.

With Mastercard operating in over 200 countries and territories, and Zenith Bank Sierra Leone providing technology-driven banking support, the new virtual card is widely seen as a major boost to Sierra Leone’s digital transformation journey.

International Moral Guarantors, APC and ICPNC Set for Crucial Talks on Unity Agreement

April 13, 2026

Her Excellency Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, former Vice President of the Republic of The Gambia and Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS)

By Amin Kef-Ranger

The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has formally invited the leadership of the All People’s Congress (APC) Party to a high-level consultative meeting with the International Moral Guarantors, as part of ongoing efforts to follow up on the implementation of the Agreement for National Unity and the recommendations of the Tripartite Committee Report.

According to an official correspondence dated 7th April 2026 and signed by the ICPNC Executive Secretary, Hawa Samai, the joint delegation of International Moral Guarantors is expected to visit Sierra Leone from 13th to 17th April 2026 for a follow-up mission aimed at assessing progress made so far.

The mission will be jointly led by Her Excellency Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang, former Vice President of the Republic of The Gambia and Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), with technical support from staff drawn from various institutions.

The letter addressed to the APC Secretary General stated that during the visit, the delegation will engage in consultations with key actors and stakeholders across the country to develop modalities and a roadmap for monitoring the implementation status of both the Unity Agreement and the Tripartite Report.

As part of the engagement, the delegation has specifically requested a meeting with leaders of the APC Party. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the party’s office on Tuesday 14th April 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., where discussions will focus on issues relating to national peace, cohesion and the implementation of the agreements reached.

The ICPNC noted that a copy of the agenda has been attached for the attention of the APC leadership, expressing optimism that the engagement will lead to fruitful discussions on matters concerning the peace and national cohesion of Sierra Leone.

The development underscores sustained regional and international interest in Sierra Leone’s political stability process, particularly the continued implementation of post-dialogue recommendations intended to strengthen democratic trust, reconciliation and long-term national unity.